Zogenix Painkiller Gets FDA Approval Despite Criticism

The Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved an extended-release version of the narcotic painkiller hydrocodone despite a recommendation by its advisory committee that the drug should be rejected because of its potential for abuse.

The federal agency approved Zohydro ER from Zogenix Inc., the first hydrocodone product not mixed with milder painkillers such as acetaminophen and also the first extended-release hydrocodone...